Carbonell Institute
Eating disorders
Eating disorders are characterized by a change in eating habits that results in impaired nutrient absorption and negatively impacts both health and social life. Although there are several types of eating disorders, such as rumination, pica, and binge eating, anorexia and bulimia are the most significant due to their severity. The causes of these disorders are multifaceted, encompassing psychological, biological, emotional, and social factors. Both anorexia and bulimia are linked to problems with self-control and emotional issues. Regarding emotional problems, low self-esteem is a common factor, as individuals with these disorders focus their self-concept almost exclusively on appearance and weight. They tend to be perfectionists, meaning that changes in their bodies are never enough, leading to a significant discrepancy between how they are and how they ideally wish to be. Another characteristic is their excessive focus on any changes in this area, to the point of developing distortions about their actual size. This is where a cycle begins, because if there is a distortion in body image, they will never reach their ideal of beauty. Regarding difficulties with self-control, which occur mainly in bulimic individuals, there are some symptoms similar to the cravings an addict might experience or patterns of compulsive eating.
Causes:
There are several factors that can lead to the development of an eating disorder. These are:
Psychological factors:
- Low self-esteem
- Feelings of lack of control over their life.
- Depression and anxiety.
Interpersonal signs:
- Problematic social and family relationships.
- Difficulty expressing feelings and emotions.
- Having been ridiculed for his weight.
- History of physical or sexual abuse.
Social factors:
- Cultural beauty standards that glorify “thinness”.
- To place more emphasis on physical appearance than on inner qualities.
Biological factors:
- Having several family members with the same disorder and therefore a genetic predisposition.
- Having a tendency towards obesity.
- undergo bodily changes.
Course and prognosis:
Although these disorders can occur at any age and in any gender, it's important to note that adolescent girls are most at risk, as they often experience greater social pressure related to body image and undergo significant bodily changes during this time. In any case, if signs of this problem are detected, it should not be dismissed as a normal phase, and professional help should be sought.
